Oktoberfest – Revel in the Fun
In the moist September weather, the only thing worth the wait is the Oktoberfest (which doesn’t even take place in October – most of it happens in September last week, but nevertheless) – the million litres beer and fun, the unlimited bouts of laughter and the delicious Bavarian chicken make the festival more of a party and a den of lost and found hand ins.
History says that when the Bavarian crown Prince Louis, later King Louis I of Bavaria married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen, the Bavarian royalty invited the citizens of Munich to attend the festivities, held in the front of the city gates. Horse races were the initial concluding festivities, however today this has become more of alcohol. It also sees big music bands performing live for those children, teetotalers and non-beer fans to enjoy. Although one doesn’t need a reason really to be a part of this celebration, even so we bring to you some fun things about the most happening UK’s Oktoberfest.
1) The Drink of course – Intention or not, one usually tends to visit the Oktoberfest and get hold of some amazing brands of liquor and even if you are an occasional drink person, the dizzy atmosphere of the fest ensures that you slosh yourself to the glory. While renowned locally-brewed beers are a speciality, you have an option to sample some gems or drink the whole lot. The choice is wholly yours and there is no one to stop, you remember?
2) The mini theme park that it is – You have children and you have no clue whether taking them with you is a safe bet. Go for it. The festivities don’t just include beer bottles, chicken and music. It also has mini theme parks designed especially for children entertainment. The roller coasters and thrill rides have all of it in them to keep your tiny tots busy while you are off drinking and eating your heart out.
3) The Rest of all – You may want to spend your time inside your tent drinking contently, but we strongly suggest you getting out of your comfort zones and venture around to understand the other parts of the festivities. Traditional German music, processions of marching bands, disciplined costumed troops, cows and oxen is all a part of a great long Parade of the celebrations of the festival. The local cuisine is a must have and we recommend you binge on some before you lose all the heart and mind to the alcohol.
Some quick tips: While many of us may want to revel in the fun fully and completely, it is important to understand that it may not be a good idea to get inebriated and create a ruckus. You do not want to get thrown out by the authorities for having some silly fight that you had in unconscious state. Carrying enough cash is a safe bet, but since you will be parked in a tent almost all the time, do ensure you have the cash in a safe place. It tends to get hot and sticky inside the tent, so we recommend light clothing. Smoking is strictly prohibited and hence all we want is to be sure not to get kicked out for that really. You may get tempted to steal some steins but we strongly suggest against it as you do not want to end up in the cellars. Cops can be nasty at times. Have a flexible approach. You may walk in to take in the ultimate German experience but understand that the fest has lost its traditional touch till a few years back and has now become an international party. Every festival comes with its pros and cons and truths and whims. Enjoying a particular festival requires immense amount of sense of responsibility and flexibility and you do not want to fall prey to your own notions. So make sure your children and friends are absolutely adjustable to the fact about how it would turn out to be. You just do not want to spoil your mood by tampering around with too much beer or getting crazily ravenous. Be a sport and you will have your Oktoberfest tasty on your dinner plate.